From the title, you might expect I was once again pontificating on the new graduate nurse. But, you would be wrong! The post title is really something significant to nurses as we look at the amount of disposable waste we generate in the hospital or health care environment each day. I have to admit - I am certainly no expert on this, but it would seem to me that every time I use a pair of gloves or use supplies that are perfectly packaged, I am making a not so wonderful contribution to the waste issue on our planet.
Have you considered the amount of waste you generate in one single shift? What happens to all this waste? I am sure it is incinerated, but the power necessary to incinerate this waste has to also take its tool on the natural resources of the planet as well. Are there better ways to package supplies? Are there better ways that health care professionals can promote a green attitude in the health care environment that does not place them or the patient at risk? I would certainly believe that we can and really should strive to look into this issue.
While I may not have the answers professionally about health care waste, I can start at home. I can make a difference at home and begin to explore how I can make a difference professionally. Hopefully you can too.
